Separation Anxiety Training for Dogs: A Guide to a Calmer Dog

Separation anxiety in dogs is more common than many pet parents realise. It can be heartbreaking to watch your dog become distressed every time you leave the house. Whining, barking, destructive behaviour, and even accidents indoors can all be signs that your furry friend is struggling to cope with being alone. But the good news? With patience, consistency, and the right approach, we can help separation anxiety dogs feel more secure and relaxed when home alone.

What Is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes overly attached or dependent on their owner and gets extremely anxious when left alone—even for short periods. It’s not just “bad behavior”—it’s a genuine emotional response to being separated from someone they love.

Signs of Separation Anxiety

If your dog is suffering from separation anxiety, you might notice:

• Excessive barking or howling
• Pacing or restlessness
• Destructive chewing or scratching at doors/windows
• Attempts to escape the house or crate
• Accidents inside the house, despite being house-trained
• Salivating, panting, or trembling

These behaviours typically begin shortly after you leave and often subside once you return.

Separation Anxiety Training: Where to Start

Helping your separation anxiety dog overcome separation anxiety involves gradually teaching them that being alone isn’t scary. Here are some key steps in the training process:

1. Create a Calm Departure and Arrival Routine

• Don’t make a big deal out of leaving or returning home. Avoid excited greetings or prolonged goodbyes. Calm, low-key behavior helps reduce the emotional highs and lows.
• Practice short departures where you leave for just a minute or two, then slowly increase the time as your dog becomes more comfortable.

2. Desensitize the Triggers

Dogs pick up on cues that signal you’re about to leave—like picking up your keys or putting on shoes. Start doing these actions randomly throughout the day without leaving to reduce their association with your departure.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Give your dog a special treat or toy (like a stuffed Kong) that they only get when you’re away. This helps them associate your absence with something positive and engaging.

4. Encourage Independence

Don’t let your dog follow you around the house constantly. Train them to stay in another room for a few minutes at a time. Gradually increase the distance and duration to build confidence when they’re alone.

5. Consider Crate Training (if appropriate)

Some dogs find comfort in a crate because it mimics a safe, den-like space. Crate training should always be a positive experience—never a punishment. For other dogs, being crated increases anxiety, so observe your dog’s behaviour and consult a trainer if unsure.

Additional Tips

• Exercise and mental stimulation before leaving can help reduce anxiety. A tired dog is often a more relaxed one.
• Background noise, like a TV or white noise machine, can help your dog feel less alone.
• Professional help, such as a dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist, might be necessary in severe cases.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with separation anxiety takes time and commitment, but with the right training and lots of love, your dog can learn to feel more comfortable and confident on their own. Every dog is different, so don’t be discouraged by slow progress. With consistency, you’ll both get through it—and come out stronger on the other side.